Newbie Trying to Mod Up My Rig

[Guffey]

I'm brand new to the site, but I've already seen so much useful stuff. I'm have a 1998 XJ and I'm trying to rig it up, without spending a ton of money. I would like to add in some D Rings to the front bumper, and eventually buy a whole new bumper, but don't want to spend $400 on a wench model. Any ideas? Also, any cheaper lift kits that I can do myself? I don't want huge tires, but I'd like to be able to hit the trails without getting stuck.

 

[mtbxj87]

This should probably be in the modified section.
One of the great things about the xj is its been around forever and didn't change much. They made a ton of them and people have been modding them for years. Start with using google searches and study peoples build threads.

 

[Jay Sco]

You can't simply add d-rings to the thin bumpers. Well, you can, but they'd be worthless. Check this thread http://www.naxja.org/forum/showthread.php?t=1087009
There are many lifts. "Cheaper" is a relative term, and any kit is DIY with minor skills and a few tools. Be aware that most kits are far from complete, and the higher you go then the more things need to be done associated with a lift. I opted for a Zone 3" kit, seemed to be one of the best affordable kits that have a good reputation. I still had to get brake lines and a track bar. Should get LCAs soon. 3" lift will allow 31" tires, depending on the wheel offset you may rub a little, easy fixes usually.

 

[Original_MudButt]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Jeep-Cherok...ash=item5666166d82:g:pOIAAOSwF1dUNtCz&vxp=mtr

Rusty's used to make D-Ring (also known as bow shackles) mounts that will bolt up in place of the hooks.

 

[Jay Sco]

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Jeep-Cherok...ash=item5666166d82:g:pOIAAOSwF1dUNtCz&vxp=mtr

And for reference, here's a pic of those on mine. The con is they hang down a couple inches below the bumper, not bad. Pro is they work and are cheap.